Energyst's custom solution was selected out of many for several reasons

One of the largestest copper mines in the world, located in Chile, is Energyst’s client.

Of course, that makes Energyst feel proud. This copper mine processes approximately 230 kilotons per day of copper ore. It’s only logical, that this copper mine depends heavily on power supplies. But when this power is supplied through the existing, vulnerable regional grid… a degree of uncertainty arises that is – understandably – unacceptable to our client.

The regional grid has become an unreliable source of energy.

Low investment combined with increasing daily demand for new and growing projects in the region have caused this situation. To ensure the mining company’s stable operations, and to help it maximise production capacity, our client wanted a temporary emergency power plant that could make up for this lack of energy reliability. Energyst provided. But we were challenged more than this.

To handle the complexity and geographical spread of the mining operations, leading communications technology was needed too.

The mining operations include the mining pits, waste disposal, ore stocking and processing, and transportation to a nearby shipping port. And – as a key extra requirement – the company’s strict environmental policies also stipulated minimal nitrous oxide and noise emissions.

“Clients feel we have a sincere desire to really understand their business and specific needs”

Joel Rodrigo Albornoz Morales

Project Manager at Energyst Chile

Energyst invested a great deal of attention and commitment into fully understanding the customer’s circumstances.

In our discussions with the customer we saw that only an above-average, non-standard approach would meet all of their most important requirements. Our custom solution was selected for several reasons, including the fact that it integrated a SCADA system in the power plant, which provides control of remote equipment. This gave our client the leading communications technology needed for the efficient handling of their complex copper mining operations. We understood their concern that a temporary power plant should also have minimal nitrous oxide and noise emissions, to protect the environment and a nearby fishing village.

A sincere desire to really understand the customer's business and their specific needs

“Clients frequently tell us that what sets Energyst apart from other energy rental companies is a sincere desire to really understand their business and their specific needs”, says Joel Rodrigo Albornoz Morales, Project Manager at Energyst Chile. “Only by listening carefully to our clients, and working closely together can we provide great solutions for today and tomorrow. In this specific case, the Real Energy approach resulted in delivering reliable off-grid power and leading communication technology, but at the same time respecting the environmental constraints. And – as we are sure you find equally important – we added an extra benefit too – by improving the copper mine’s profit margin!”

How can we bring Real Energy to your world?

To find out more about our design and engineering expertise, or to ask our advice on power, heating or cooling, contact your nearest Energyst rental location or simply call 00800 3637 4978. We will put all our energy into helping you find the right solution.

Technical specifications

This Energyst emergency power plant solution was configured using 17 CAT XQ2000 IPP model generators powered by a Caterpillar G3516B heavy duty engine that featured low noise levels of 75 dB(A) at 15 meters and low NOx emissions. Nine step-up transformers (4 MVA/13,8KV), one switchgear unit and three external fuel tanks with a capacity of 27,000 litres, as well as 4500 metres of LV cable and 1600 metres of HV cable completed the system, ensuring 23 MW of continuous power and making the mining location invulnerable to uncertain grid power. Project duration: 3 years, plus an option to extend by 2 more years.

SAVING AN ARGENTINIAN TOWN'S CHRISTMAS

"A steady power supply is essential in the catering industry, especially when temperatures reach record highs and it’s the festive season. Energyst’s solution truly alleviated a bad situation for our entire town."

Mines and quarries depend on reliable power to keep working at peak capacity and avoid dangerous and costly blackouts. With operations often taking place in remote and challenging off-grid areas, any interruption to your power supply can have far-reaching consequences.